Introduction to Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a national museum in the United States. The Smithsonian occupies a number of buildings on the Mall and in other parts of Washington, D.C. It also has centers elsewhere.
The Smithsonian conducts scientific research and explorations; has museum, zoological, and art gallery exhibits; and publishes papers and reports of its activities. Through numerous programs, it encourages the use of its resources by schools of all levels. It provides assistance to museums throughout the nation and the world.
The Smithsonian is governed by a Board of Regents that includes the Vice President and the Chief Justice of the United States. The board elects a secretary as the executive officer and director of activities. Several bureaus are governed by independent boards of trustees. Memberships in the Smithsonian Institution are offered to the public. Members receive Smithsonian, a monthly magazine devoted to history, science, and the arts.
History
The Smithsonian Institution was created by Congress in 1846 with $500,000 left for that purpose by James Smithson, a British scientist. Funds have since been added by individuals and by the government. The first building, popularly called the Castle, was constructed 1847-55. Under Joseph Henry, the first secretary, the institution primarily published and distributed research findings. Under Spencer F. Baird, the second secretary, it began making collections of scientific interest. Over the years, the Smithsonian often served as a repository for miscellaneous items of varying value and interest; it gained the nickname nation's attic.
Its early interests, reflected both in its research and its exhibits, were mainly in sciences and history. With the acquisition of the Freer and Mellon collections, its art activities assumed importance.
In the 1950's, a concerted effort was begun to refurbish and modernize the museums and galleries. In the following decades, rapid development and expansion of facilities continued. The most notable additions were the Kennedy Center in 1971, the National Air and Space Museum building in 1976, a major addition to the National Gallery of Art in 1978, and the Smithsonian Quadrangle in 1987.